NEIGHBOURHOOD policing teams will be stepping up patrols in Middlesbrough after introducing a dispersal order.

The clampdown, in the Greater Eston area, aims to tackle anti-social behaviour and other crime.

The order began yesterday and will run until 11.59pm on Sunday, November 8.

Officers say they saw a significant rise in anti-social behaviour over this period last year and are putting these measures in place to combat incidents of unruly behaviour.

Neighbourhood Policing Inspector, Guy Hall, pictured, said: “We will be carrying out high visibility patrols in the area with officers on foot and on bikes using head cams and the mounted section and CCTV van will also be assisting with patrols.

“Letters have been sent out to all schools in the area to enlist the support of parents in ensuring they know where their children are and what they are doing.

“By parents helping us to help them, we hope this time of heightened activity by young people will be curbed.”

A police command vehicle will be parked at various points within the designated area to offer advice and residents will be able to speak to officers and share information.

Cleveland Police Authority chair, Councillor Dave McLuckie, who is also the cabinet member for community protection at Redcar and Cleveland Council, said: “We know that anti-social behaviour can be a real problem for people at this time of the year and the message we are determined to get across to those who might be tempted to cause problems is that our officers will not let them get away with it.”